IPSWICH: The new owners of a town centre bar have been delving into its history as the venue prepares to re-open this week.

Work is nearly complete on the refurbishment of the former Tonic bar in Falcon Street which will be renamed Bowman’s when it is re-launched with an opening party night on Saturday.

Researching the bar’s roots proved the inspiration for partners Chris Pooley and Miles Savage as they searched for a new name for the venue.

Mr Pooley said: “The venue has a great deal of history, not only as a pub but also, as we discovered, it was the brewery tap for The Falcon Brewery which shared the site.

“Alfred Bowman founded the brewery and brewed ale from 1855 to 1864 at 5 Falcon Street, presumably selling his wares in the pub.”

The bar’s operations director, Rob Pooley, added: “Although we are changing the name we will continue to build on the solid reputation of this vibrant town centre bar.

“We are enthusiastic about the future and are confident that our existing customers will welcome the changes but that we will also attract some new ones in the process.”

The refurbishment will include revamping the existing roof terrace and outside space, full redecoration both inside and out, and the provision of a private function room which will be available for hire for birthdays, hen or stag parties and retirement parties or even for conference use for other town centre businesses.

Mr Savage added: “We are upgrading and refurbishing the kitchen too which will enable us to expand and develop our food offering.

“We will be introducing a superb lunch-time menu which will suit all tastes – from those who want a quick bite in their lunch hour to those who will want to linger for longer and enjoy a glass or two of wine from our extensive wine list.”

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